Piersma has 'Gnawing Thoughts' of her past

Ugandan American Hida Jessie Piersma, of New Hartford, survived a long and bloody regime under Idi Amin in her homeland, as well as the murder there of her father.

Immigrating first to Italy and then to the United States, she married, had children, earned a college degree and is now working as a registered nurse.

How have your past experiences shaped who you are today?

“The most significant influence on my life was my parents, especially my dad,” she said. “Dad struggled very hard to raise five children ... through war, draught and poverty. My dad never gave up or abandoned us.

“While I was in Italy, my dad was walking along a roadway near our village when he was attacked and beaten by rebels and then left to die. He died alone.”

In 1999, Hida Jessie married Michael Piersma and came to live in the Mohawk Valley, pursuing a dream.

“My dad and mom both wanted me to be a nurse,” she said.

She attended Utica College, earned a bachelor of science in 2008, and now works as a registered nurse at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City, commuting to New Hartford when she can.

She has a daughter, stepson and a son. Her son, the youngest, commutes with her husband between New Hartford and New York City.

“We consider New York City my workplace and New Hartford our home,” she said.

What kept you going through all your difficulties?

“I promised myself I would not give up, and I will keep on going relentlessly. This comes from my dad’s example. His sacrifice is one of the ‘Gnawing Thoughts’ that pushes me ever forward.”

“Gnawing Thoughts” is the title of her autobiography, which details how she overcame many difficulties.

A U.S. citizen since 2004, she has this advice for her fellow Americans:

“First, don’t give up. These are relatively difficult times … but they are not impossible times.

“Second, better yourself. Take a class, get in shape, eat right, whatever it is you choose.

“Third, once a week turn off the TV, computer and Blackberry and help. There are many organizations that need volunteers. Help your neighbor, a veteran, or your family.”

For the future, Piersma said she still has three major goals. “The first is to return home and visit my father’s grave,” she said. “The second is to continue my schooling and become a nurse practitioner.

“The third is to open a medical clinic and school in my old home in memory of my father. To that end, I have founded Lanekatuk Memorial Inc. Part of the proceeds from my book will go to the organization. For more information, visit www.lanekatukmemorial.org

“The war in northern Uganda is considered over, but after nearly 20 years of war and devastation, the Ugandan government is telling people to return to their villages, while in truth there is literally nothing to return home to; where 20 years ago a village once stood, now there is nothing but bush and rock.”